Theme: introduction to the Dutch system of dismissal and its constituents

Each year, in the four issues, a specific topic is discussed in one of the articles published in Tijdschrift voor Ontslagrecht. This year’s theme is a comparison of different countries and their dismissal law systems. We aim to learn from three surrounding countries in terms of best practices, as well as possible limitations. That is why we have asked three renowned and well-embedded authors to provide insight into current legislation and regulation in their country, the system and its constituents, considered individually and in combination with each other. Interesting topics in our view: What are grounds for dismissal? Are these grounds verified repressive or preventively? And what terms need to be taken into account, such as for terminating the employment contract, paid sick leave and procedural aspects? In order to get the best possible impression on what can and cannot work in the Netherlands, this article starts with a general overview of relevant aspects of the Dutch dismissal system. In addition, we pose some questions that hopefully will be answered in the follow-up contributions. We write this in English, because the subsequent articles will be in English as well.